Hard floor panel for suspended floor panel composite structures

Abstract

A hard floor panel (1) for suspension laying to form a floor panel composite structure, the floor panel having: a core made of artificial wood, artificial wood-plastic or plastic plates, the core having an upper side (2) and a lower side (3); and side edges (10, 20; 30) with complementary tongue-and-groove profiles along the panel side. The invention relates to a floor panel composite structure (10, 30, 50, 70) having a V-shaped seam, in which at least two floor panels are joined together in each case, in which two opposite side edges of the at least two floor panels each have a (upper) section A and a (lower) section B with respect to the thickness of the floor panel, and in which a tenon (11, 12) is provided in the section B of the first side edge (10, 30, 50, 70). 31), and a groove (21, 41) is provided in a section B of the opposite second side edge (20, 40), a first chamfer (16a, 36b) and a first joining surface (16, 36) adjoining the first chamfer being provided in a section A of the first side edge, and a second chamfer (26b, 46b) and a second joining surface (26, 46) adjoining the second chamfer being provided in a section A of the opposite second side edge (20, 40), characterized in that the first chamfer (16b, 36b) and the second chamfer (26b, 46b) are provided in a section B of the opposite second side edge (20, 40). According to the invention, the first side edge (10, 30) and the second side edge (26b, 46b) each have the same length, the first joining surface (16, 36) of the first side edge (10, 30) and the second joining surface (26, 46) of the second side edge are each inclined in the same direction at an angle alpha away from a perpendicular to the upper side of the panel, the inclination angle alpha being between 1 DEG and 10 DEG, preferably between 2 DEG and 5 DEG, in particular preferably between 2 DEG and 3 DEG.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a rigid floor panel for use in suspended installation to form a floor panel composite structure, particularly laminate flooring. Background Technology

[0002] Floor panels with tongue and groove joints at the side edges, used for installation in paneled composite structures such as laminate flooring, are widely popular and traditionally known. The tongue and groove joint allows for the simple installation of the floor panel as a floor underlayment. This underlayment can be made of, for example, wood fiberboard or plastic sheets. Floor panels typically have a decorative layer and a durable surface layer. A typical tongue and groove joint is described, for example, in EP 2686502 B1.

[0003] However, the traditional tongue and groove profile has the following disadvantages: it creates gaps of varying sizes between the panels that are close together. Dirt and moisture can enter these gaps, causing the load-bearing board of the floor panel to expand or swell, especially when using engineered wood panels as the load-bearing board. This expansion or swelling of the engineered wood load-bearing board causes the surface layer to lift, resulting in increased wear on the surface layer.

[0004] Correspondingly, various alternative tongue and groove profiles have been developed in the past to reduce gap dimensions. Thus, for example, a floor panel for implementing a floor lining is known from EP1026341 B1, wherein coupling portions in the form of grooves and tenons are provided at the edges of two opposing sides of the panel. Here, the tenons and grooves are configured such that, in the engaged state of two or more floor panels, a tension force is applied to each other, forcing the floor panels to press against each other. The tension force is caused by an elastically bendable lip in the groove, which at least partially bends in the engaged state and provides the aforementioned tension force in the aforementioned manner.

[0005] However, the aforementioned scheme also causes gaps on the upper sides of the joined panels, and in particular, gaps at the contact points of the mating surfaces of the two opposing side edges of the two joined floor panels, through which moisture and dirt may enter between the floor panels.

[0006] Laminate flooring with so-called V-joints has also proven to be very popular. A V-joint is created when the edges of the wood panels are chamfered or beveled. A chamfer is an inclined milled portion at the side edge that forms a V-shaped angle when the floor panels are joined together. This joint formation is used to enhance the visual appeal of the individual panels and create optical separation between them. A problem with V-joints is that moisture can accumulate in the joint and may seep into the gaps between the panels.

[0007] To reduce moisture ingress into the V-shaped joint, as known from standards such as WO 2020 / 200988 A1 or DE 20 2019 101807 U1, the side edges are provided with chamfers (or bevels) of varying lengths. Here, the first side edge with the shorter chamfer has a wedge-shaped protrusion beneath which is an undercut mating surface. Therefore, the first and second side edges do not have the same geometry. In particular, the first and second side edges are not of the same type and are not mirror-symmetrically formed. In the joined state, the undercut mating surface of the protrusion covers the larger chamfered portion of the second side edge; that is, the V-shaped joint is formed in the joined state. In the joined state, a wedge-shaped gap may be formed between the mating surfaces of the side edges, with the apex of the wedge-shaped gap pointing upwards towards the panel surface.

[0008] The disadvantages of the schemes described in WO 2020 / 200988 A1 or DE 20 2019 101 807 U1 are that the side edges of the panels must have chamfers of varying lengths, which is an additional expense in terms of production technology, resulting in higher costs. Furthermore, in engineered wood panels with relatively thin thicknesses, the already small area of ​​the joint surface is further reduced. Laying floor panels with such designs is also more difficult because the protrusions or undercuts of the shorter chamfers are expected to break, leading to more frequent defects. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to improve upon the tongue and groove profiles known in the prior art, so as to avoid, on the one hand, the formation of gaps at the joint surfaces of floor panels, especially at V-shaped joints, thereby preventing the entry of moisture and dirt, and thus preventing the associated disadvantages. On the other hand, it should be feasible to manufacture in existing production lines without additional technical costs.

[0010] The objective is achieved by means of a floor panel having the features of claim 1.

[0011] Correspondingly, a rigid floor panel is provided for suspended installation to form a floor panel composite structure, the floor panel having: a core made of engineered wood, engineered wood-plastic, or plastic board, the core having an upper side and a lower side; and side edges with complementary tongue-and-groove profiles along the panel sides (i.e., along the longitudinal and / or transverse sides), the floor panel composite structure having a V-shaped joint.

[0012] Each of the floor panels consists of at least two panels joined together or connected to each other.

[0013] At least two floor panels each have two opposite side edges that, with respect to the thickness of the floor panel, have an (upper) segment A and a (lower) segment B, respectively.

[0014] A tenon is provided in section B on the first side edge, and a groove is provided in section B on the opposite second side edge.

[0015] The first side edge segment A has a first chamfer and a first mating surface adjacent to the first chamfer, and the opposite second side edge segment A has a second chamfer and a second mating surface adjacent to the second chamfer.

[0016] The first chamfer and the second chamfer have the same length.

[0017] The first mating surface of the first side edge and the second mating surface of the second side edge are respectively (in the same direction) inclined at an angle α away from the vertical line perpendicular to the upper side of the panel (in parallel).

[0018] The tilt angle α is between 1° and 10°, preferably between 2° and 5°, and especially preferably between 2° and 3°.

[0019] For the purposes of this invention, the mating surface should be understood as facing each other such that the panels joined together support each other at said facing point, so as to form a closed (flat) surface as possible for the connected and locked panels. Therefore, the technical term for the mating surface includes sections of side edges that actually press against each other. The mating surfaces directly abut each other to close the surface. The first and second mating surfaces extend parallel to each other simultaneously, such that in the joined state of the floor panels, the mating surfaces abut and contact each other along their entire surface. By arranging the mating surfaces parallel to each other at an angle, high surface pressure and preload are generated at the mating edges or mating surfaces, resulting in a durable lock.

[0020] By arranging the mating surfaces according to the invention as parallel to each other at a certain angle, high surface pressure is generated at the mating edges, along with a specific preload, resulting in a durable lock. A decisive advantage is the generation of surface pressure on two flat surfaces parallel to each other at a certain angle. Due to the corresponding angle, the preload can act much more effectively than in the case of straight mating surfaces.

[0021] As already indicated, for the purposes of this invention, the beveled portion of the mating surface or mating edge should be understood as an inclined or sloping portion of the mating surface or mating edge away from the upper side of the panel away from the vertical line or (with respect to the upper side of the panel) vertical line.

[0022] Typically, the corresponding mating surfaces of the upper side and side edges of the panel form a right angle (β = 90°). The upper side of the panel and the mating surfaces are arranged at right angles to each other, that is, the first mating surface and the second mating surface typically extend parallel to each other at a vertical angle β relative to the upper side of the panel.

[0023] Conversely, in the panel according to the invention, the first and second mating surfaces are inclined at an angle α to the vertical. Because the inclined mating surfaces are parallel, i.e., they extend parallel to each other, this means that the first and second mating surfaces are inclined away from the vertical in the same direction, such that the inclination angles α of the two mating surfaces are each the same.

[0024] Due to the inclination of the mating surfaces, the angle β between the upper surface of the panel and the corresponding mating surface is no longer 90°. Instead, it is greater than 90° in the case of the first mating surface and less than 90° in the case of the second mating surface. Therefore, the angle β' between the panel surface and the first mating surface can be taken as 90° plus the inclination angle α, while the angle β'' between the panel surface and the second mating surface can be taken as 90° minus the inclination angle α; thus, angle β' is greater than angle β''.

[0025] Therefore, β' can be between 91° and 100°, preferably between 92° and 95°, and especially preferably between 92° and 93°. The angle β'' can be between 80° and 89°, preferably between 85° and 88°, and especially preferably between 87° and 88°.

[0026] When the inclined mating surfaces of the first side edge of the tongue-and-groove section and the second side edge of the groove-and-groove section are abutted, in the state where at least two floor panels are joined together, linear pressure occurs at the contact point of the mating surfaces along the inclined mating surfaces of the side edges of the tongue-and-groove section and the groove-and-groove section. This allows for the avoidance of gaps between the mating floor panels, thereby reducing the ingress of moisture and dirt into the floor lining. Linear pressure is derived here from the profile geometry and the pressure to be applied. Currently, the term "linear pressure" should be understood as pressure that extends linearly or substantially linearly along the mating or locking surfaces. Here, the mating surfaces (along the entire or almost the entire surface) are actually pressed against each other linearly.

[0027] Due to the parallel bevels or inclinations of the joint surfaces, when the floor panels are joined together, the angle between the linear pressure of the joint surfaces and the upper surface of the panels is 90° minus the inclination angle α (corresponding to the angle β'' defined above). Therefore, the angle between the linear pressure and the upper surface of the panels can be between 80° and 89°, preferably between 85° and 88°, and particularly preferably between 87° and 88°.

[0028] Furthermore, advantages are derived from the installation and surface pressure of panels with an inclination angle of 2°-10° as defined according to the invention, compared to flatter angles (i.e., tilt angles greater than 20°, as in CN 107938992). Therefore, due to the pre-tightening in the profile composite structure of the floor panel, a certain pressure must be established during installation to prevent liquid ingress. The flatter the angle, the less pressure can be established. Conversely, the side edges or joint edges (parallel to each other at a certain angle) according to the invention allow for closure of the side edges under pressure, thereby preventing water from entering the gaps and profile.

[0029] Unlike the subject matter of this invention, the floor panel described in WO 2020 / 182453 A1, while also having beveled joint surfaces, does not extend parallel to each other, but rather... Far away from the ground The first and second mating surfaces are not flush or aligned with each other when placed.

[0030] According to the invention, the first and second side edges (in section A) on the upper side of the panel each have chamfers for forming a V-shaped joint. Therefore, a chamfer or bevel (or chamfer) is provided at the transition between the upper side of the panel and the mating surface.

[0031] According to the invention, the (opposite) chamfers of the first and second side edges have the same length, such that there is no overlap of chamfers when they are joined together.

[0032] The first chamfer and the opposite second chamfer have the same type of geometry. The two chamfers are mirror-symmetrical with respect to each other. In particular, neither chamfer has an undercut or a protrusion.

[0033] The angles γ' and γ'' between the chamfer (or bevel) and the panel surface are between 20° and 50°, preferably between 30° and 40°, meaning the chamfer bends or folds with respect to the panel surface at said angle value. Angles γ' and γ'' can be the same or different. In one embodiment, angle γ' can be, for example, between 20° and 30°, while angle γ'' is between 30° and 40°. However, preferably, angles γ' and γ'' are the same size.

[0034] In the joined state of the floor panels, the opposing chamfers form a V-shaped joint, wherein the V-shaped joint has an angle of 90° to 130°, preferably 100° and 120°.

[0035] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the floor panels form a V-shaped joint when joined together, wherein the contact point of the opposing chamfers is the tip of the V-shaped joint, i.e., the first and second chamfers (only) touch or contact with their respective ends at the tip of the V-shaped joint. Thus, the tip of the V-shaped joint is the only point of contact between the two chamfers.

[0036] The mating surfaces of the opposing side edges extend parallel to each other in line pressure at an angle α away from a vertical line perpendicular to the panel surface, from the contact point or the tip of the V-joint. This angle is between 1° and 10°, preferably between 2° and 5°, and particularly preferably between 2° and 3°. The parallel, angled mating surfaces extend along the entire first segment A of the opposing side edges to the second segment B of the opposing side edges, i.e., to the mortise and tenon profile.

[0037] The distance between the beginning of the chamfer on the upper side of the panel and the tip of the V-shaped seam is between 0.2 mm and 0.8 mm, preferably between 0.35 mm and 0.7 mm. The chamfer length can be determined using trigonometric geometry.

[0038] The thickness of the panel can be between 4 mm and 15 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 12 mm, especially preferably between 4 mm and 10 mm, even more preferably between 5 mm and 8 mm, and especially preferably between 5 mm and 7 mm, for example, 5.5 mm or 6.4 mm.

[0039] In one embodiment of this floor panel, the segment A having a first mating surface and a second mating surface has a width or thickness of 1 mm to 3 mm, preferably 1 mm to 2 mm, and particularly preferably 1 mm to 1.5 mm, that is, the length of the first mating surface and the second mating surface is in the range of 1 mm to 3 mm, preferably 1 mm to 2 mm, and particularly preferably 1 mm to 1.5 mm, for example, 1.2 mm.

[0040] The structure of the tenon-shaped profile and the groove-shaped profile is described in detail below.

[0041] The profiled portion provided in this floor panel, having tenons and grooves as coupling parts between two panels, is preferably constructed as a single piece.

[0042] In one embodiment, the tenon of the first side edge has an upper side and a lower side; wherein the first mating surface of the first side edge extends from the upper side of the floor panel to the upper tenon side.

[0043] The groove in the second side edge has an upper side and a lower side, wherein the upper side of the groove is defined by an upper lip and the lower side of the groove is defined by a lower lip; wherein the second mating surface of the second side edge extends from the upper side of the floor panel along the upper lip.

[0044] In another embodiment of the floor panel, a protrusion with a contact surface is provided on the underside of the tenon at the first side edge; and a recess with a contact surface is provided in the lower lip of the groove at the second side edge. When at least two floor panels are joined together, the protrusion of the tenon engages with the recess of the lower lip of the groove, such that the contact surfaces of the protrusion of the tenon and the recess of the lower lip of the groove apply tension to each other.

[0045] The tenon and groove preferably have complementary shapes. The protrusion at the underside of the tenon extends along the lower lip of the groove and engages with the recess of the lower lip of the groove in the coupled state of the two panels. The contact surfaces of the protrusion and recess of the tenon abut against each other. The tenon is precisely positioned against the upper and lower sides of the groove in the coupled state of the floor panels, where pressure P is applied to the upper lip of the groove. This pressure is absorbed not only by the upper lip but by the entire structure, as it can be transmitted through the tenon and lower lip. The clamping pressure P induces tension, which joins and holds the panels together.

[0046] The distance between the upper side of the tenon and the upper side of the panel and the distance between the lower side of the tenon and the lower side of the panel can be changed according to the thickness of the panel.

[0047] The thickness of the tenon is preferably the same as the net width of the groove, so that the upper lip of the groove is supported by the tenon, and the tenon is supported by the lower lip of the groove.

[0048] The upper side of the tenon is flat or level and horizontally positioned relative to the upper side of the panel. The upper side of the groove (or the lower side of the upper lip of the groove) is also flat and horizontal, allowing the tenon and groove to engage or push into each other without resistance. The upper side of the tenon and the lower side of the upper lip form a contact surface that extends substantially parallel to the plane defined by the floor panel.

[0049] In another embodiment of this floor panel, a recess is provided between the mating surface of the tenon profile and the upper side of the tenon.

[0050] It is also proposed that the lower side of the tenon has a bevel at its edge. The beveled portion can also be described as having a chamfer at an angle between 45° and 55°.

[0051] As described above, the protrusion located on the underside of the tenon extends along the lower lip of the groove. In the coupled state of the two panels, the protrusion engages with the recess of the lower lip of the groove. The contact surfaces of the protrusion of the tenon and the recess of the lower lip are at an angle between 30° and 70° about the horizontal plane. This angle is ideal to achieve optimal pressing of the floor panels together, while simultaneously allowing for easy joining and assembly of the floor panels.

[0052] In the joint or coupled state of the tenon and groove, an additional space may be formed between the protrusion on the lower tenon side and the recess in the lower lip of the groove, which serves, for example, as a dust cavity. The size of the dust cavity may vary, for example, between the profiles on the longitudinal side (longitudinal profile) and the transverse side (transverse profile) of the panel.

[0053] It is also proposed that the lower lip of the groove extends beyond the upper lip of the groove. In this case, the recess in the lower lip of the groove is located in the section where the lower lip extends beyond the upper lip of the groove.

[0054] In one embodiment of this floor panel, at least one saddle-shaped portion is provided in the recess of the lower lip of the groove. The saddle-shaped portion is expressed with different strengths in the transverse and longitudinal profiles.

[0055] The thickness of the upper lip of the groove can be greater than or equal to the thickness of the lower lip. When the upper and lower lip thicknesses differ, the groove is positioned below the center line of the panel via the center line of the tenon and groove. In this configuration, when two floor panels are joined together, the lower lip of the groove bends, ensuring that the upper side of the floor panel does not undergo any change or deformation.

[0056] The upper and lower lips also have rounded edges, which simplifies the joining of the panels. Therefore, the mating surface of the upper lip can have a rounded edge or a chamfer. The chamfer is set at the contact point between the upper lip of the groove and the upper side of the tenon, and allows for a simple joining of the floor panels.

[0057] In another embodiment, an inclined surface or chamfer (or a ramp) is also provided at the free end of the lower lip of the groove, thereby enabling the tenon and groove profiles to be easily pushed into each other.

[0058] A chamfer or beveled portion with a length of 0.6 mm is provided at the transition from the tenon-shaped profile and the groove-shaped profile to the lower side of the panel, having an angle between 20° and 30°, preferably 25°. The chamfer is particularly provided in the reaction portion (Gegenzug) provided on the lower side of the panel, and can achieve better laying without forming debris.

[0059] In other embodiments of this floor panel, the tongue and groove profile has one of the following characteristics or combinations thereof: rounded corners (or edges) of the tongue and groove profile; dust cavities between all sides of the floor panels that are joined to each other; and, in particular, the dust cavities mentioned above between the recess of the lower lip of the groove and the protrusion of the tenon.

[0060] The tongue-and-groove profile allows two floor panels to be joined together by applying rotational or pivoting motion (“angle-to-angle”). Here, the first floor panel is first placed obliquely over the horizontally positioned second floor panel, and then the first floor panel is pivoted toward the laying plane, so that the joined floor panels are in the laying plane. To enable the two floor panels to join together by rotational motion, the edges or bends are preferably rounded or circular.

[0061] The floor panel preferably has a rectangular shape, wherein a tongue-and-groove profile is provided at the longitudinally extending side edge and at the transversely extending side edge.

[0062] The longitudinal profile used to connect the panel along the longitudinally extending side edge can have the same or different mortise and tenon profile as the transverse profile used to connect the panel along the transversely extending side edge; that is, the mortise and tenon profiles of the longitudinally extending side edge and the transversely extending side edge can be the same or different.

[0063] The main difference between the tenon and groove profiles used (i.e., longitudinal and transverse profiles) lies in the configuration of the saddle-shaped portion in the recess of the lower lip, which also results in a larger space or cavity between the tenon and the groove recess when the floor panels are joined together. In the case of the transverse profile, the lower lip of the groove also has a bevel at the end of the groove, while the longitudinal profile does not have such a bevel.

[0064] Therefore, in one embodiment, it can be proposed that the longitudinally extending side edges and the transversely extending side edges have the same mortise and tenon profile, particularly corresponding to the transverse profile described having a saddle-shaped portion, a large dust cavity, and a sloping surface.

[0065] The same type of use of the mortise and tenon profile (especially in the form of a transverse profile) is particularly suitable. This particular suitability is achieved through the combined action of a long lever from the lower lip on the groove side, by means of which force is applied to the mating surfaces that are implemented parallel and at an angle to each other, by means of which the locking device thus designed is fairly securely protected from water ingress. Furthermore, the tenons can be inserted more easily—making installation more user-friendly than a more compact design.

[0066] In another embodiment, it may be proposed that the longitudinally extending side edge and the transversely extending side edge may have different mortise and tenon profiles, wherein the longitudinally extending side edge has a longitudinal profile with a smaller dust cavity as described above, and the transversely extending side edge has a transverse profile with a larger dust cavity as described above.

[0067] Preferably, the panel has a core made of engineered wood, preferably HDF or MDF, engineered wood-plastic composite, preferably WPC, or a plastic support board, preferably PVC or SPC. When using plastic, the core may contain at least 70% filler of the total weight of the core of the support board, preferably calcium carbonate or a material with similar properties. In a preferred embodiment, a board or panel is used with a core having an increased adhesive content (12%-60%), said core being made of wood fiberboard or particleboard.

[0068] As described above, this type of floor paneling is used for floating floor paneling installation. The corresponding installation method includes the following steps:

[0069] - Laying the first floor paneling, and

[0070] - The second floor panel is joined to the first floor panel, wherein the tenon of the second floor panel is joined to the groove of the first floor panel, wherein the lower lip of the groove profile bends outward in the joined state, such that the lower lip provides a force by which it forces the panels to press permanently against each other.

[0071] The preload caused by the combined action of the tenon and groove is optimally transferred to the upper side of the floor panel, wherein in the joint direction, the joint surfaces of the tenon-shaped profile and the groove-shaped profile press against each other, so that a linear pressure appears at the contact point of the joint surfaces when a certain angle is formed between the joint surfaces. Attached Figure Description

[0072] The invention is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. The drawings show:

[0073] Figure 1A A schematic cross-section of a floor panel with a thickness of 6.4 mm is shown, the floor panel having a tenon profile (lateral profile) according to a first embodiment.

[0074] Figure 1B A schematic cross-section of a floor panel with a thickness of 6.4 mm is shown, the floor panel having a grooved profile (lateral profile) according to a first embodiment.

[0075] Figure 1C A schematic cross-section of two floor panels joined together is shown, the floor panels having in Figure 1A The tenon-shaped profile shown in the figure and in Figure 1B The groove-shaped profile shown in the image;

[0076] Figure 2AA schematic cross-section of a floor panel with a thickness of 6.4 mm is shown, the floor panel having a tenon profile (longitudinal profile) according to the second embodiment.

[0077] Figure 2B A schematic cross-section of a floor panel with a thickness of 6.4 mm is shown, the floor panel having a grooved profile (longitudinal profile) according to the second embodiment.

[0078] Figure 2C A schematic cross-section of two floor panels joined together is shown, the floor panels having in Figure 2A The tenon-shaped profile shown in the figure and in Figure 2B The groove-shaped profile shown in the image;

[0079] Figure 3A The basis for showing chamfered edges is shown. Figure 1A Floor paneling (horizontal profile);

[0080] Figure 3B The basis for showing chamfered edges is shown. Figure 1B Floor paneling (horizontal profile);

[0081] Figure 3C The basis for showing the V-shaped seam is shown. Figure 1C Two floor panels joined together;

[0082] Figure 4A The basis for showing chamfered edges is shown. Figure 2A Floor paneling (longitudinal profile);

[0083] Figure 4B The basis for showing chamfered edges is shown. Figure 4B Floor paneling (longitudinal profile);

[0084] Figure 4C The basis for showing the V-shaped seam is shown. Figure 2C Two floor panels joined together. Detailed Implementation

[0085] This invention describes rectangular floor panels that can be connected to each other not only on their longitudinal side but also on their transverse side, or, however, can be connected to each other only on one side.

[0086] Therefore, according to the first embodiment, in Figure 1A , Figure 3A The tenon-shaped profile shown in the figure and in Figure 1B , Figure 3B The grooved profile shown is provided on the lateral side, i.e., the shorter side, of the floor panel, while according to the second embodiment... Figure 2A , Figure 4A and Figure 2B , Figure 4B The profile shown is joined to the longitudinal side of the floor panel.

[0087] In a particularly preferred variation, both the longitudinally extending (longer) side edge and the laterally extending (shorter) side edge have the same, corresponding to... Figure 1A , Figure 3A and Figure 1B , Figure 3B The mortise and tenon profile shown in the figure has a saddle-shaped portion, a large dust cavity, and a sloping surface.

[0088] Using the same type of transverse profile on all side edges of the floor panel allows for the combined action of a fairly long lever from the lower lip on the groove side, by means of which force is applied to the mating surfaces that are implemented parallel and obliquely to each other, by means of which the locking device thus designed is fairly securely protected from water ingress. In addition, the tenons can be inserted more easily, respectively.

[0089] The side edges shown in the figure have (upper) segments A and (lower) segments B, respectively, depending on the thickness of the floor panel. Segment A of the side edges is provided with first mating surfaces 16 and 36, and second mating surfaces 26 and 46, respectively. Segment B of the side edges is provided with tenons 11 and 31, and grooves 21 and 41, respectively.

[0090] This floor panel has a rectangular shape with side edges 10, 20 extending along the longitudinal and transverse sides of the panel, and is suitable for suspended installation to form a floor panel.

[0091] Floor panels typically range in length from 1m to 2m. The thickness of the panels can also be varied, however... Figures 1A to 1C and Figures 2A to 2C The embodiment described herein is 6.4 mm.

[0092] Each floor panel has a mortise and tenon joint at opposite edges 10, 20, which is described in detail below and allows two adjacent floor panels to be joined together. Here, a tenon 11 is provided in the first side edge 10, and a groove 21 is provided in the opposite second side edge 20.

[0093] Figure 1A The first tenon profile is shown as being designed for the lateral side of a floor panel. The tenon 11 of the tenon profile of the first side edge 10 has an upper side 12 and a lower side 13.

[0094] The distance between the upper side 12 of the tenon and the upper side of the inlay or the surface 2 of the inlay, and the distance between the lower side 13 of the tenon and the lower side 3 of the inlay, can be changed according to the thickness of the inlay.

[0095] The upper side 12 of the tenon 11 has a flat surface 19, which is horizontally positioned relative to the upper side of the panel. The length of the upper side of the tenon is within the transverse profile ( Figure 1A ) and longitudinal profile ( Figure 2A The length of the tenon side in the horizontal profile is greater than that in the vertical profile.

[0096] The underside of the tenon 11 has a bevel or chamfer 17 at its edge, the bevel or chamfer having an angle between 45° and 55°.

[0097] A protrusion 14 with a contact surface 15 is provided on the lower side 13 of the tenon. The protrusion 14 has an inclination between 10° (lateral profile) and 44° (longitudinal profile) on the flat, horizontal section of the lower side 13 of the tenon.

[0098] The length and height of the protrusion 14 also vary depending on whether the tenon is used as a transverse or longitudinal profile.

[0099] Figure 1A The tenon profile has a mating surface 16 at its side edge, which extends from the upper side 2 of the floor panel to the upper tenon side 12 and has a bevel or inclined portion extending from the upper side of the floor panel toward the upper tenon side. The bevel or inclined portion of the mating surface 16 extends away from a vertical line or (with respect to the upper side of the panel) at an angle α of 3°. The angle β' between the upper side of the panel and the inclined first mating surface 16 is 93°.

[0100] Regarding the vertical line on the upper side of the floor panel, the mating surface 16 has a beveled portion facing the vertical line.

[0101] A recess 16a is provided at the transition from the joint surface 16 of the tenon-shaped profile to the upper side 12 of the tenon.

[0102] according to Figure 1B The diagram shows a groove 21 set in the second side edge 20 of the floor panel 1, which has an upper side and a lower side. The upper side of the groove 21 is defined by an upper lip 22, and the lower side of the groove is defined by a lower lip 23. The net width or width of the groove formed by the upper lip 22 and the lower lip 23 corresponds to the thickness of the tenon 11, so that the tenon 11 can be inserted into the groove 21.

[0103] The lower side of the upper lip 23 of the groove, having a face 29, is arranged flat and horizontally like the upper face 19 of the tenon, so that the tenon and the groove can be engaged or pushed into each other without resistance. The upper face 19 of the tenon and the lower face 29 of the upper lip 23 form a contact surface that extends substantially parallel to the plane defined by the floor panel.

[0104] The upper lip 22 and the lower lip 23 have different thicknesses, with the upper lip 22 being thicker than the lower lip 23. Due to the smaller thickness of the lower lip 23, it serves as a flexible, bendable protrusion.

[0105] A recess 24 with a contact surface 25 is provided in the lower lip 23 of the groove, wherein the recess 24 with the contact surface 25 and the tenon 11 with the contact surface 15 complement each other. A saddle-shaped portion 27 is formed in the recess 24. The saddle-shaped portion 27 in the transverse profile ( Figure 1B ) and the saddle-shaped portion 47 in the longitudinal profile ( Figure 2B The different composition schemes of the components are strongly manifested through the technical profile geometry and the associated preload effect.

[0106] Figure 1B The groove-shaped profile has a mating surface 26 at the side edge extending along the upper lip 22. The mating surface 26—like the mating surface 16 of the tenon—is beveled, wherein the beveled portion of the mating surface 26 also extends away from the vertical line or (with respect to the upper side of the panel) at an angle α of 3°. The angle β' between the upper side of the panel and the inclined second mating surface 26 is 87°.

[0107] Therefore, mating surfaces 16 and 26 are inclined at an angle α of 3° away from the vertical line or vertical line or (with respect to the upper side of the panel) vertical line.

[0108] A chamfer or bevel 26a is provided at the transition portion from the mating surface 26 to the lower side of the upper lip 23 having surface 29.

[0109] A ramp 28 is provided at the free end of the lower lip 23 of the groove, which simplifies the engagement of the short transverse sides with each other. Conversely, the corresponding ramp 48 in the longitudinal profile ( Figure 2B The shape is less pronounced, or more precisely, rounded. The geometric differences arise from the different characteristics of the transverse and longitudinal profiles when they bend during laying. The ramp 28 allows for easier placement of the transverse profile. Furthermore, it ensures that laying is performed with a mallet without damaging the profile.

[0110] In the joined state (see Figure 1C The protrusion 14 of the tenon 11 engages with the recess 24 of the lower lip 23 of the groove, such that the contact surface 15 of the protrusion 14 and the contact surface 25 of the recess 24 of the lower lip apply tension or preload to each other.

[0111] When the beveled joint surface 16 of the tenon-shaped profile and the beveled joint surface 26 of the groove-shaped profile are pressed together in the state of two floor panels being joined, line pressure occurs at the contact portion of the joint surfaces 16 and 26 along the beveled, parallel joint surfaces 16 and 26. Therefore, the joint surfaces 16 and 26 are pressed together to form an almost continuous surface.

[0112] Due to the geometric implementation of the tongue and groove profile, dust cavities are formed between all sides of the floor panels that are joined together. It should be particularly noted that in the transverse profile, a cavity is shown between the recess 24 of the lower lip 23 of the groove 20 and the protrusion 14 of the tenon 11. Figure 1C ).

[0113] Conversely, in the longitudinal profile (see Figure 2C In the transverse and longitudinal profiles, the cavity or dust chamber between the recess 44 and the protrusion 34 is relatively small. This is related to the selected tenon mechanism of the groove profile in the transverse and longitudinal profiles, where the springback is greater in the transverse profile than in the longitudinal profile. Furthermore, the transverse profile also has a higher profile spacing than the longitudinal profile (i.e., the lower lip 23 of the transverse profile is longer than the lower lip 43 of the longitudinal profile). Therefore, the groove sidewalls of the transverse profile can spring back, thereby enabling easier laying in the transverse profile, combined with the ramp 28 and the cavity. The slightly altered profile mass and geometry of the transverse and longitudinal profiles are caused, in particular, by the different characteristics of the transverse and longitudinal profiles due to the different lever arms when the profiles bend during laying.

[0114] exist Figure 1C In the case of the floor panels joined together as shown, the gap between the lower lip 23 and the lower tenon edge can also be seen at the transition to the underside of the panel, and this gap is particularly noticeable when HDF panels are installed.

[0115] As already mentioned, in Figures 2A to 2C The second embodiment of the tongue and groove profile shown in the figure is configured as a longitudinal profile in the longitudinal side of the floor panel.

[0116] Figure 2A The tenon-groove profile basically corresponds to Figure 1A The tenon profile has a length that differs from the length of the lower tenon side 13 in the transverse profile. Specifically, the length of the lower tenon side 13 in the transverse profile is different from the length of the lower tenon side 33 in the longitudinal profile. Figure 2A The longitudinal profile is longer.

[0117] Furthermore, the geometry of the protrusion 14 in the transverse profile differs from that of the protrusion 34 in the longitudinal profile. Therefore, the protrusion 14 in the transverse profile is constructed more weakly than the protrusion 34 in the longitudinal profile, meaning its height is less than that of the protrusion 34 in the longitudinal profile. This geometric difference also arises from the different characteristics of the transverse and longitudinal profiles due to the different lever arms when the profiles bend during installation.

[0118] In the joined state (see Figure 2C Linear pressure occurs along the beveled joint surfaces 36 and 46. Therefore, the joint surfaces 36 and 46 are also pressed together along the longitudinal edges to form an almost continuous surface.

[0119] The length of the lower lip 23 of the horizontal profile is also different from the length of the lower lip 43 of the vertical profile, wherein the lower lip 23 of the horizontal profile is longer than the lower lip 43 of the vertical profile.

[0120] exist Figures 3A to 3C and Figures 4A to 4C The implementation methods shown are similar to Figures 1A to 1C and Figures 2A to 2C The difference in the implementation is that the first side edges 10, 30 and the second side edges 20, 40 have chamfers at the transition from the upper side of the panel to the mating surface, and the chamfers create a V-shaped seam when they are joined together.

[0121] In the embodiment, the angles γ' and γ'' between the chamfer (or bevel) and the panel surface are the same size and are between 30° and 40° respectively.

[0122] exist Figure 3C and Figure 4C The V-shaped seams in the joined panels have angles between 100° and 120°. The distance between the apex or tip of the V-shaped seam and the start of the chamfer on the upper side of the panel is between 0.35 mm and 0.7 mm. The chamfer length can be calculated using trigonometric geometry with sin(angle / 2). Correspondingly, with an angle of 100° and a distance of 0.35 mm, the chamfer length is between 0.46 mm and 0.91 mm, and with an angle of 120° and a distance of 0.35 mm, the chamfer length is between 0.4 mm and 0.8 mm.

[0123] NALFA testing and ISO 4760

[0124] The inspection surface according to ISO 4760 is made of flooring manufactured according to the implementation variation shown in the figure. A comparison sample consisting of thick planks without any tilt angle is also provided.

[0125] The joined panels were subjected to NALFA testing. The entry of water into the profile was investigated here.

[0126] 100 ml of colored water was filled into the ring bonded to the surface. The water remained on the surface for 24 hours. Evaluation was then performed according to standards. This evaluation included determining not only the amount of residual water still present in the ring, but also the expansion of the test specimen in the test area.

[0127] This shows that, in the case of the comparative sample, only 36% passed the Nalfa test, while in the sample according to the invention, the success rate was 90%. Therefore, the tilt angle of the mating surface causes a significant improvement in the Nalfa test.

[0128] List of reference numerals

[0129] 1 Floor paneling

[0130] 2. Upper side of floor panel

[0131] 3. The underside of the floor panel

[0132] 10, 30 The first side edge of the panel with a mortise and tenon profile has a thickness of 4.5 mm.

[0133] 11,31 tenons

[0134] The upper side of 12,32 tenons

[0135] The lower side of 13,33 tenons

[0136] 14, 34 protrusions

[0137] Contact surfaces of protrusions 14 and 34 at points 15 and 35

[0138] 16, 36 beveled joint surfaces

[0139] 16a, 36a Recesses in joint surfaces 16, 36

[0140] Chamfering for V-shaped seams at two points on the upper side of the 16b and 36b panels.

[0141] 17, 37 chamfered edges

[0142] Contact surfaces on the upper sides of 12 and 32 of 19 and 39

[0143] 20, 40 have a second side edge with a grooved profile and a thickness of 4.5 mm.

[0144] 21, 41 slots

[0145] 22, 42 Upper lip

[0146] 23, 43 Lower lip

[0147] 24, 44 Recess in the lower lip 23, 43

[0148] 25, 45 contact surface of recessed portions 24, 44

[0149] 26, 46 beveled joint surfaces

[0150] 26a, 46a chamfered edges

[0151] Chamfering for V-shaped seams at two points on the upper side of the 26b and 46b panels.

[0152] 27, 47 Saddle-shaped portion in recess 24, 44

[0153] 28, 48 slope surfaces

[0154] 29, 49 The contact surfaces on the lower sides of the upper lip 22, 42

[0155] α The angle of inclination away from the vertical of the first mating surfaces 16, 36 and the second mating surfaces 26, 46

[0156] The angle β' between the upper side 2 of the β' panel and the inclined first mating surfaces 16, 36

[0157] The angle between the upper side 2 of the β'' panel and the inclined second mating surfaces 26, 46

[0158] The angle between γ' chamfered edges 16b and 36b and the upper side 2 of the panel.

[0159] The angle between γ' chamfers 26b and 46b and the upper side 2 of the panel.

Claims

1. A rigid floor panel (1) for suspended installation to form a floor panel composite structure, the floor panel having: a core made of engineered wood, engineered wood-plastic, or plastic board, the core having an upper side (2) and a lower side (3); and side edges (10, 20; 30, 40) with complementary tongue-and-groove profiles along the panel sides, the floor panel composite structure having V-shaped joints, Each of the floor panels consists of at least two panels joined together. The at least two floor panels each have two opposing side edges that, with respect to the thickness of the floor panel, respectively have an (upper) segment A and a (lower) segment B. A tenon (11, 31) is provided in section B of the first side edge (10, 30, 50, 70), and a groove (21, 41) is provided in section B of the opposite second side edge (20, 40). The first chamfer (16a, 36b) and the first mating surface (16, 36) adjacent to the first chamfer are provided in the segment A of the first side edge, and the second chamfer (26b, 46b) and the second mating surface (26, 46) adjacent to the second chamfer are provided in the segment A of the opposite second side edge (20, 40). Its features are, The first chamfer (16b, 36b) and the second chamfer (26b, 46b) have the same length. The first mating surfaces (16, 36) of the first side edge (10, 30) and the second mating surfaces (26, 46) of the second side edge are inclined at an angle α away from the vertical line perpendicular to the upper side of the panel in the same direction. The tilt angle α is between 1° and 10°, preferably between 2° and 5°, and especially preferably between 2° and 3°.

2. The floor panel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first chamfer (16b, 36b) and the second chamfer (26b, 46b) do not have protrusions or undercuts.

3. The floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The corresponding chamfers (16b, 36b; 26b, 46b) have an angle γ', γ'' between the chamfer (or bevel) and the panel surface, which is between 20° and 50°, preferably between 30° and 40°.

4. The floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first chamfer (16b, 36b) and the opposite second chamfer (26b, 46b) form a V-shaped joint when the floor panel is joined together, wherein the V-shaped joint has an angle of 90° to 130°, preferably 100° and 120°.

5. The floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first chamfer (16b, 36b) and the opposite second chamfer (26b, 46b) form a V-shaped joint in the joined state of the floor panel, wherein the first chamfer and the second chamfer contact at the tip of the V-shaped joint with their respective ends.

6. The floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The segment A having the first mating surface (16, 36) and the second mating surface (26, 46) has a width or thickness of 1 mm to 3 mm, preferably 1 mm to 2 mm, and particularly preferably 1 mm to 1.5 mm.

7. The floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The tenon (11, 31) of the first side edge (10, 30) has an upper side (12, 32) and a lower side (13, 33); wherein the first mating surface (16, 36) of the first side edge (10, 30) extends from the upper side (2) of the floor panel (1) toward the upper tenon side (12, 32).

8. The floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The groove (21, 41) has an upper side and a lower side in the second side edge (20, 40). The upper side of the groove (21, 41) is defined by an upper lip (22, 42), and the lower side of the groove is defined by a lower lip (23, 43). The second mating surface (26, 46) of the second side edge (20, 40) extends from the upper side (2) of the floor panel (1) along the upper lip (22, 42).

9. The floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, A protrusion (14, 34, 54, 74) with a contact surface (15, 35, 55, 75) is provided on the lower side (13, 33, 53, 73) of the tenon on the first side edge; and a recess (24, 44, 64, 84) with a contact surface (25, 45, 65, 85) is provided in the lower lip (23, 43, 63, 83) of the groove (21, 41, 61, 81) on the second side edge. In the case where at least two floor panels are joined together, the protrusions (14, 34) of the tenon (11, 31) engage with the recesses (24, 44) of the lower lip (23, 43) of the groove (21, 41), such that the contact surfaces (15, 35; 25, 45) of the protrusions (14, 34) of the tenon (11, 31) and the recesses (24, 44) of the lower lip (23, 43) of the groove (21, 41) apply tension to each other.

10. The floor panel according to claim 97, characterized in that, The recess (24, 44) in the lower lip (23, 43) of the groove (21, 41) is provided in a section in which the section is located in the portion of the lower lip (23, 43) of the groove (21, 41) extending beyond the upper lip (22, 42) of the groove (21, 41).

11. The floor panel according to any one of claims 9 or 10, characterized in that, At least one saddle-shaped portion (27, 47) is provided in the recess (24, 44) of the lower lip (23, 43) of the groove (21, 41).

12. The floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The tenon-groove profile has one of the following characteristics or a combination thereof: - The rounded portion at the corner (or edge) of the tenon-groove profile; - Dust cavities between all sides of the floor panels that are joined to each other; in particular dust cavities between the recess (24, 44) of the lower lip (23, 43) of the groove (21, 41) and the protrusion (14, 34) of the tenon (11, 31); - The ramp surface (28, 48) at the free end of the lower lip (23, 43) of the groove (21, 41). - The contact surfaces (19, 29; 39, 49) formed by the upper side (12, 32) of the tenon (11, 31) and the lower side of the upper lip (22, 42) extend substantially parallel to the plane defined by the floor panel (1).

13. The floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that... It has a rectangular shape, wherein the mortise and tenon profile is provided at the longitudinally extending side edge and the laterally extending side edge, respectively.

14. The floor panel according to claim 13, characterized in that, The tenon-groove profiles in the longitudinally extending side edges and in the transversely extending side edges are the same or different from each other.

15. The floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The panel has wood fiberboard or particleboard made of WPC board, PVC support board or SPC support board, with an adhesive content of 12% to 60%.

16. A method for suspending the floor panel according to any one of the preceding claims to form a floor panel composite structure, the method comprising the following steps: - Lay the first floor paneling. - A second floor panel is joined to a first floor panel, wherein the tenon of the second floor panel is joined to a groove in the first floor panel, wherein the lower lip of the groove profile bends outward in the joined state, such that the lower lip provides a force that forces the panels to press permanently against each other.

17. A floor panel composite structure, said floor panel composite structure being manufactured according to the method of claim 16.

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